On November 7, the LSM Class of 2020 experienced Defense in Southern Maryland. Class members spent the day onboard Naval Air Station Patuxent River learning from the workforce and exploring the processes and partnerships that make up the research, development, test and evaluation cycle.  The day kicked off with a presentation by CAPT Chris Cox LSM'19, the base commanding officer and lead advocate for the session.  John Hungerford LSM ’18 was also on-hand to discuss the Naval Surface Warfare Center Indian Head Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technology Division (NSWC IHEODTD).  

As always, the Defense session was a very hands-on experience that included a tour of the United States Naval Test Pilot School as well as an overview of the Atlantic Test Range with Robert Vargo LSM’10.  Lunch included presentations from community supporters who champion both the base and members of the military including Roger Cordell LSM’18 from the Navy League and MaryKay Myers LSM’10 of The Patuxent Partnership.  A trip to the Manned Flight Simulator where several class members had a chance to "fly", a visit to the Auditory Performance Lab, and a trip to the top of the air traffic control tower were other highlights of the day.

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Erin Melanson, LSM's Project Manager for the Emerging Leaders Program (LEAP).  In addition to her new role with LSM, Melanson is co-owner of Xella Winery and Vineyard located in Mechanicsville, Maryland. She manages all operations for both winery and vineyard. She received a BS in business administration and economics in 2006 from the University of Central Florida and an MA in secondary mathematics education in 2008 from Western Governors University.

Melanson previously worked as a mathematics teacher at Great Mills High School as well as an adjunct mathematics faculty member with the University of Phoenix prior to starting the winery. She also has enjoyed doing freelance graphic design work for local businesses for the last nine years.

Melanson was born and raised in Orlando, Florida and married a naval officer whose shared passion is wine. Upon her husband's impending retirement from the Navy, they decided to put down roots in Southern Maryland, literally. They, along with their three children, enjoy working on their farm.

The Patuxent Partnership

The Patuxent Partnership (TPP) has been a long-time supporter of Leadership Southern Maryland.  The organization increased its sponsorship level from Silver to Gold this year.  In addition, TPP provides the Leadership Southern Maryland Nonprofit Scholarship each year, making the Executive Program more accessible to a leader in the nonprofit community.

The Patuxent Partnership works with government, industry and academia on initiatives in science and technology, hosts programs of interest to NAVAIR and the broader Department of Defense community, and supports workforce development including education initiatives and professional development.  For more information, visit their website at www.paxpartnership.org.

Thank you for your Gold level sponsorship!